The Importance of Oxygen Sensors

Oxygen sensors are vitally important and highly misunderstood.

They are pivotal for providing feedback to the Engine Control Unit
(ECU) to trim fuel supply to the engine and thus ensuring the highest
fuel efficiency and lowest emission.
Oxygen sensors read the oxygen
content of the exhaust gases and compare it to the oxygen level
in the atmosphere.
The ECU uses this data to control the fuel supply
through the injectors to an air/fuel ratio of 14.7:1, known as the
stoichiometric ratio.

Their role is relatively simple but understanding how they interact
with the rest of the engine management system can be confusing.

Diagnosing whether the oxygen sensor is a cause or a symptom
can be quite difficult.
In many cases oxygen sensors are in perfect
working order and DTC’s that relate to oxygen sensors are only
identifying that something else is failing in the vehicle.
The range and breadth of Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTC’s) is considerable,
leading to regular misdiagnosis.

Design and technology of oxygen sensors has changed dramatically
over the years. Original versions were only single wire, progressing
up to 4, 5 and even 6 wire sensors. Automotive use expanded
from single sensor to multiple sensors within the exhaust system.
The common automotive format is a Pre-cat sensor primarily for
the control of the air/fuel mixture and a Post-cat sensor designed
for diagnosing the efficiency of the catalytic converter.

Cooldrive carries an extensive range of oxygen sensors from
genuine manufacturers covering brands like Mazda, Toyota and
Mitsubishi. Cooldrive has products from OE manufacturers like
Bosch, NTK and Denso to supply the needs of the tradesman.
It is important to always use quality brands ensuring peace of
mind for you and your customer.
At Cooldrive we have in-depth product knowledge and are able to assist with any of your enquiries.

This material has been prepared with the intent to provide a resource of reliable information; however no warranty (express or implied) is made as to its accuracy or completeness. Neither is any liability assumed by CoolDrive Auto Parts for damage or loss resulting from reliance on the information or process disclosed.